Drum Castle, Drumoak, United Kingdom

Drum Castle was for centuries the seat of Clan Irvine. The original 13th-century tower of Drum Castle has been suggested as the work of medieval architect Richard Cementarius, who built the Bridge of Don in Old Aberdeen. It is believed to be one of the three oldest tower houses in Scotland (and notably unaltered). A large wing was added in 1619 by the 9th laird, and further alterations were made during the Victorian era.

The castle and its grounds were granted to William de Irwyn in 1325 by Robert the Bruce, and remained in the possession of Clan Irvine until 1975. William de Irwyn was armour bearer/secretary to King Robert the Bruce. Drum played a role in the Covenanting Rebellion leading to its being attacked and sacked three times.

The castle is surrounded by late 18th-century gardens, including a rose garden and arboretum containing trees from all regions of the 18th century British Empire.

Today, the castle is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is open during the summer months. The chapel, dining hall and estate may be hired for weddings and corporate functions. A variety of local events such as classic car rallies and musical fetes also occur here. There is also a small shop and tearoom within the castle.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Farah Mathres (2 years ago)
One-hour guided tour only of the castle, the garden is accessible independently. Since the castle was not part of our explorer pass, I found it a bit more expensive than the others, £27.50 for an adult and child, plus £3 for parking, plus drinks and snacks, and souvenirs if you decide to buy them. I would recommend purchasing a National Trust of Scotland membership if you plan on doing the castle trail. The tour was a bit long for my 7-year old, although quite informative for older folks. The garden was beautiful and well maintained.

Shurik McLaren (2 years ago)
A bit pricey tickets, costly car parking (£3), WC, no ghosts at the time of our visit((( even though informative, lots of exhibits and history remained

Mark Herford (2 years ago)
We spent a wonderful few hours at this National Trust of Scotland property. Michelle our guide was a dressed in costume as the lady of the house and was thoroughly engaging and informative. Without doubt the best ever National Trust experience for us during our visit to many properties in Scotland. The house was impeccably.presented and the furnishings, painting and decoration were excellent and greatly enhanced by Michelle's very knowledgeable and entertaining guidance. Would recommend very highly as a must visit.

Katalin (2 years ago)
The castle is worth watching. The guide was okay, but I felt there were too many people in one group. Unfortunately, we couldn't look around properly. However, we had a fantastic soup at the coffee shop.

Garousi Yousef (2 years ago)
Very beautiful and peaceful castle. Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly and funny.

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The castle first mentioned in 1200 was originally owned by the King and later, at the end of the 13th century it fell in hands of Matúš Èák. Its owners alternated - at the end of the 14th century the family of Stibor of Stiborice bought it.

The next owners, the Bánffys who adapted the Gothic castle to the Renaissance residence, improved its fortifications preventing the Turks from conquering it at the end of the 16th century. When Bánffys died out, the castle was owned by several noble families. It fell in decay after fire in 1729.

The history of the castle is the subject of different legends.

Drum Castle

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